What Is a Marquise Cut and Where Did It Come From?
Introduction
Sleek, dramatic, and shaped like a sail catching the light, the marquise cut-also known as the navette (“little boat” in French)-turns heads without trying. Curious whether this elongated stunner belongs in your engagement ring? Here’s everything you need to know.
Definition
A marquise-cut diamond is a narrow, tapered shape with pointed tips at both ends and a brilliant-cut faceting style (typically 56-58 facets). Curved sides and a dramatic silhouette create a finger-lengthening effect. Thanks to its shallow depth, a marquise often looks larger than its carat weight-just be sure to protect those delicate tips.
Origin Story
Legend says France’s King Louis XV commissioned a diamond shaped like his mistress’s lips-scandalous, très royal. Parisian cutters obliged, and by the Victorian era the “marquise” cut adorned tiaras and brooches across Europe. Modern cutting techniques sharpened its symmetry and brilliance while preserving that unmistakable boat-like outline.
Why Scottsdale Couples Still Love It
- Visual magic: A ~2 : 1 ratio elongates fingers-sparkly contouring, if you will.
- Carat stretch: A 1 ct marquise looks larger than a 1 ct round, delivering more “real estate” for less.
- Desert-proof profile: Set in a low-profile bezel, it resists snags while you hike Pinnacle Peak or shop the Quarter.
Pro Tips for Choosing a Marquise
- Bow-tie check: Inspect in daylight and indoor light; a subtle bow-tie adds depth, but it shouldn’t dominate.
- Protect the tips: Opt for V-tip prongs or partial bezels to guard against chips.
- Find the sweet ratio: Classic elegance lives between 1.75 - 2.15. Too short looks stubby; too long risks breakage.
- Consider east-west: Side-set marquises are trending and pair beautifully with curved bands. See ideas in our Mixed-Metal Band Guide.
Famous Marquise Moments
- Victoria Beckham: Late-’90s glam with a 17 ct marquise sparked a craze.
- Catherine Zeta-Jones: Vintage setting with side baguettes-pure Old Hollywood.
- Star of Stanley Ho: 218 ct, one of the most flawless marquises ever certified by GIA.
Closing
Royal backstory, finger-flattering shape, and impressive size-for-price—the marquise cut offers it all. Want to see one in person? Book a private consultation at our Scottsdale studio. Slip one on and discover how this timeless cut makes everything else feel… a little ordinary.
Further Reading
Deep-dive from GIA ➜ Marquise Cut Guide